Palikir, Pohnpei — Federated States of Micronesia President David W. Panuelo on Monday issued a presidential proclamation ordering the FSM flag to be lowered at half-mast for four days in honor of the late Speaker Fernando Scaliem, of the 9th Pohnpei State Legislature, who passed away last week.
A similar proclamation was made by Pohnpei State government after the formal State Funeral services conducted in the morning.
Scaliem passed away last week.
“The government of the FSM recognizes that the late and Honorable Fernando Scaliem epitomized all that is right and virtuous in public service, and that he served with honor and dignity,” a press release from the office of FSM president sid. “Fernando Scaliem’s leadership in ethical and just behavior with the overarching goal for the betterment of others has shaped the norms for how Pohnpei State governs its affairs, and will he forever remembered as a paragon example of a public servant.”
On Guam, Gov. Lou Leon Guerrero and Lt. Gov. Joshua Tenorio sent their condolences to Scaliem’s family.
“Speaker Scaliem was a very close friend to me and I will miss his friendship dearly,” Leon Guerrero said.
“He was a staunch advocate for the protection of our environment and the people of Pacific islands. He truly served from the heart and loved his family and his people,” Tenorio said.
Scaliem was the president of the Association of Pacific Island Legislatures and the longest serving APIL member, who served seven terms as an officer of APIL.
Speaker Tina Rose Muña Barnes of the 35th Guam Legislature said Scaliem’s passing is a sad day not only for Pohnpei, but also for the entire Pacific Region.
Barnes said Scaliem’s drive and vision were responsible for many of the successes in our region. “To your family, colleagues, the People of Pohnpei and the Federated States of Micronesia, I would like to extend my deepest condolences on behalf of my family and the 35th Guam Legislature.”
Pilar Laguaña, president and CEO of the Guam Visitors Bureau described Scaliem as "a great ambassador not only for Pohnpei and the Federated States of Micronesia, but for all of Micronesia."
Scaliem has been an active member of the PATA Micronesia Chapter, a nonprofit association that assists in the development of our regional tourism industry through the promotion of our islands, its cultures and histories and providing education and training opportunities throughout Micronesia.
“It is with a heavy heart that we bid farewell to Speaker Scaliem," Laguana said. "We pray for comfort for his family, friends and all who knew him. We will honor him through our continual efforts to improving the lives of each person who calls Micronesia home.”